ALGON cautions council chairmen against supporting protesters

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria has cautioned the 774 council chairmen across the country against supporting the Hunger Protests currently being held simultaneously nationwide.

Several youth groups have set aside August 1 to 10 for protests against the hardship affecting citizens.

Speaking on the situation during a press conference in Lafia on Thursday, the President of ALGON, Aminu Mu’azu-Maifata, said the association decided not to support the protests because they believe that the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu has great plans for Nigerians.

He said, “As the true representatives of the various 774 LGAs across the country, ALGON calls on the entire population of our dear country who reside in these areas to shun any form of protest and embrace dialogue and peace.

“To all the council chairmen, we are aware of the numerous policies and programmes rolled out by the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, with a view to charting a new course and attracting economic prosperity to our people.

“Some of these programmes include the provision of free farming inputs, investment loans at single-digit interest rates, student loans, and the recent Local Government autonomy, which would restore the capacity, dignity, and ability of Local Government Councils to carry out their constitutional responsibilities by providing basic and necessary services to the people at the grassroots.”

He appealed to members of ALGON to exercise patience with the Federal Government regarding the implementation of the Local Government autonomy recently approved by the Supreme Court, adding that the President is keen on ensuring that the 774 LGAs in the country function properly.

Mu’azu-Maifata further explained that the association is aware of the sufferings and challenges faced by the masses but noted that calling for protests would not yield the needed positive outcomes; instead, it could endanger citizens’ lives.

“Let us work together towards a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria, where Local Government Councils are truly empowered to serve their communities. We know that only peace can help us achieve the development needed for our communities.

“Let us not return to the dark days of violence and destruction. Let us continue to embrace dialogue for the betterment of our beloved country,” the ALGON President added.